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Advices for cat/dog allergy

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Dogs and cats cause allergy through particular proteins (allergens) secreted by their sebaceous glands and present above all on the animal’s hair and skin, but also in its saliva and urine. They are very light allergens, which remain suspended in the air for a very long time and they accumulate on fibres and fabrics (carpets, curtains, couches and armchairs, mattresses, pillows, clothes, etc.). Their concentration is highest in the houses where the dog and cat live, but significant quantities may also be found in places not frequented by the animals: as the allergens adhere to the fabrics, they can be transferred anywhere. That’s why even people who do not own a cat can still become sensitive to cat allergens. Dog and cat allergies have increased a lot in recent years and nearly always affect people who are already allergic to mites; this is because mite sensitisation favours the onset of other allergies.

ADVICES TO REDUCE THE EXPOSURE TO CAT/DOG ALLERGENS

1) Do no let the animal into the bedroom

2) Cover the mattress, pillows, duvet, fabric armchairs and couches

3) Remove rugs and carpets

They are an important reserve of allergens. If that is not possible it is advisable to clean them every day using a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter, which is able to block more than 99% of the allergens that are sucked up. Vacuum cleaners without this filter are not recommended, because they send the allergens, which had previously been deposited, back into the air.